From Jennie Jones, OCCS

For many this year, Christmas will be a time (whether we like it or not) for a well-earned rest after a tumultuous period in all our lives.

For optical practices, care will continue over the Christmas period. With renewed and revised restrictions in place across the UK, practices and consumer are once again navigating these challenges.

Everyone is feeling the strain and pressures caused by the pandemic, and anxiety levels are higher than ever. During this period, opticians will continue to deliver optical care and will once again, be adjusting their practices to keep both their teams and patients safe.

The General Optical Council (GOC) has issued updated guidance in light of recent developments. The distance needed to help keep us safe can make interactions and communication harder.

The OCCS team has worked incredibly hard this year to help practices and owners to resolve escalating complaints, and often communication is at the very heart of the issue.

I would like to thank them for all, and also to the consumers and practices who have worked with us to resolve disputes collaboratively.

As we approach this festive period, the OCCS would like to share our ongoing message – trust your optician and if you are unsure, please ask the questions, share your worries and listen to your optician.

If you can talk through your worries (in a COVID-secure way), we can avoid increased upset in the long run and keep your eye health and welfare at the forefront.

The OCCS would like to wish all practices, consumers and our stakeholders a merry Christmas and a safe, healthy new year.